The statement added: "The whole of Thomson and First Choice are deeply shocked and truly saddened by the events and we are grateful to our staff on the ground and the emergency services who are working hard in an incredibly challenging environment."

Thomson advised anyone worried about friends or family to call 0800 0885372.

Customers can change bookings to Tunisia until July 24, the company said.

Thomas Cook said it has arranged for an additional aircraft to fly to Tunisia today, which would be used to support its operations to accommodate customers wanting to return home as soon as possible.

The company is offering customers due to travel to Tunisia up to and including July 4 the opportunity to cancel or amend their holiday free of charge.